Jess Bakeshop Opening Soon in Garwood, NJ: Fresh Sourdough Bread, Pastries, and More

Get ready, Garwood! Jess Bakeshop, run by Jess and her husband Simon, is opening its doors at 18 North Avenue this October, offering fresh sourdough bread, pastries, and more to the community. Jess, originally from South Korea, eventually left a successful finance and real estate career in NYC to pursue her true passion for baking. After training at the French Culinary Institute and running a micro bakery at the Chatham Farmers’ Market, she’s now excited to bring her signature sourdough creations to the Living in Garwood area!

Known for blending Asian and French baking techniques, Jess Bakeshop brings something unique for bread lovers and foodies alike. Conveniently located at the corner of North Ave and Winslow Place, just steps from Cranford and directly across from the bus to NYC, Jess Bakeshop is ready to become your go-to spot for fresh-baked goods and local flavor. Keep reading to discover more about the grand opening, signature sourdough creations, and why Jess Bakeshop is set to become a local favorite.

From NYC to Garwood, NJ – A Local Bakery Journey

What inspired you to open Jess Bakeshop in Garwood, NJ, and what do you love about this local community?
We met in NYC while I was still living there as a single city dweller. Later, I moved to New Jersey with my husband, Simon. We lived in Jersey City, then Livingston. While exploring Westfield and Cranford, we found Garwood. We instantly fell in love with its cozy charm. Garwood has its own appeal and is close to other great neighborhoods. I love how walkable the town is and how close it is to everything. It was a no-brainer to open our first storefront bakery right here.

Leaving a corporate career to start a bakery is a big change. What was the turning point that led you to follow your passion for sourdough bread and pastries?
I’ve always loved math, which led me to finance. Growing up, I would stay up all night studying. But creativity and food have always been a part of me. I tried baking part-time, but I immersed myself completely. I couldn’t stop creating and experimenting. After much reflection, I realized this was my passion. When we saw the available spot in Garwood, it felt like a sign. I knew it was time to start my bakery.

Baking Roots: From South Korea to Jess Bakeshop’s Sourdough Creations in Garwood, NJ

How did your background growing up in South Korea, with its unique bakery culture, influence the bread and pastries you create at Jess Bakeshop in Garwood?
My love for food started in Korea. Fermented ingredients are central to Korean cooking. The complex, umami-rich flavors inspired my approach to bread-making. I began creating sourdough-based bread, and it clicked. Sourdough isn’t just bread—it’s nutritious and good for the body. I can’t imagine making bread any other way. The bakery culture in South Korea blends Asian and French techniques, which definitely shaped my creations.

Building Jess Bakeshop in Garwood: Lessons from the Chatham Farmers’ Market Experience

What experience did you gain from selling sourdough bread and baked goods at the Chatham Farmers’ Market, and how does it shape your vision for Jess Bakeshop?
At the farmers’ market, I learned that quality and heart must come first. Customers can tell when you bake with love. I make sure to create things I’m proud of, and that passion shows. My focus has always been on people and love. Without those, success is short-lived. Those experiences shaped how I approach Jess Bakeshop, from sourcing ingredients to interacting with customers.

A Local Bakery in Garwood, NJ

How do you plan to make Jess Bakeshop a key part of the Garwood, NJ community, and what role do you see your local bakery playing in the neighborhood?
Our location is in a quieter part of Garwood, but it’s still high traffic. We’re eager to collaborate with local businesses and events. We want to be Garwood’s go-to for fresh, healthy bread, pastries, and coffee. Locals won’t need to travel far for quality baked goods. We hope to participate in community events and make people proud of having a neighborhood bakery.

What signature sourdough bread or pastries will customers find at Jess Bakeshop, and what makes them stand out from other bakeries in Garwood?
Sourdough is our star. I add sourdough levain to many types of bread, from focaccia to cookies. It adds flavor and nutrition. Our sweets are also unique. They aren’t overly sugary, which started as a personal preference. Our cookies and baked goods strike a perfect balance—sweet, but not too sweet. People will love our variety of breads, especially our sourdough-based creations.

Asian and French Bakery Creations

Your baking style blends Asian and French influences. Are there any unique fusion flavors or pastries you’re excited to introduce to the Garwood bakery scene?
I love mixing savory flavors into my creations. Some favorites are roasted garlic and rosemary sourdough. My Gochujang sourdough is a hit too. Expect some unique, umami-packed options! I’ll also be incorporating matcha and black sesame into both pastries and drinks, for an extra fusion touch.

The Jess Bakeshop Experience: What to Expect When Visiting Garwood’s New Bakery

What can customers expect when they first walk into Jess Bakeshop in Garwood, NJ—what will they see, smell, and experience?
I want customers to feel like they’ve discovered a hidden gem. Our bakery will be warm and welcoming. The aroma of fresh bread and butter will greet them as they enter. It will be a cozy, happy place where everyone feels at home. You’ll hear sounds of baking in the background and see friendly faces ready to help you.

Beverages and More: Coffee and Pastry Pairings at Jess Bakeshop in Garwood, NJ

In addition to sourdough bread and pastries, what coffee, tea, or other beverages will you offer to enhance the bakery experience?
Simon and I are big coffee lovers. We plan to offer espresso with housemade syrups and matcha-based drinks. Our sandwich menu will feature a mix of French and Asian flavors. There will be something new to try every time. We’re excited to pair our breads and pastries with great coffee options.

Jess Bakeshop Grand Opening: Hours, Parking, and What to Expect in Garwood, NJ

When will Jess Bakeshop officially open in Garwood, NJ, and what will your regular hours be?
We’re aiming for an October opening. We’ll start with a soft launch and limited hours. Eventually, we’ll be open five to six days a week from 8 am to 4 pm. We’re working hard to make sure everything is perfect for the grand opening!

For customers driving to Jess Bakeshop, what parking options are available in Garwood, and where would you recommend they park?
There’s free street parking on Winslow Place. There are also spots on North Avenue. So, park and come visit us! We’re conveniently located on the corner of North Ave and Winslow Place, so close to Cranford and across from the bus to NYC.

Make sure to follow Jess Bakeshop on Instagram, and email them at jessbakeshopus@gmail.com, or subscribe to their mailing list for updates on new developments! You can visit the website JessBakeshop too! We can’t wait to sample everything on opening day!